Method and apparatus for fast acquisition and low SNR tracking in satellite positioning system receivers

ABSTRACT

A satellite positioning system (SATPS) receiver has a mix of standard and enhanced digital channel processors. The standard digital channel processors perform continuous tracking. During a low SNR and/or fast acquisition mode, the enhanced digital channel processor accumulates samples of a SATPS signal that are identically positioned within corresponding PRN code repetition periods, and plays back the stored accumulated values of the samples in an integration period to a correlation section for correlation with a locally generated PRN code.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for improvingsignal acquisition and measurement by satellite positioning systemreceivers, and more particularly to acquiring and performingmeasurements on low signal to noise ratio (SNR) satellite signals, aswell as to reducing acquisition times for satellite signals havingnormal received SNRs.

2. Description of Related Art

Satellite positioning system (SATPS) receivers such as GlobalPositioning System (GPS) and Global Orbiting Navigational System(GLONASS) receivers, make precise determinations of latitude, longitude,elevation and time by using time difference of arrival and Dopplermeasurement techniques on precisely-timed spread spectrum signalstransmitted by orbiting satellites. The transmitted signals contain anumber of components designed to enable the receivers to extract therequisite information. In GPS, each satellite transmits two spreadspectrum carrier signals centered around separate frequencies. The L1signal is centered about a frequency of 1575.42 MHZ, and is modulatedwith, among other things, the coarse/acquisition (C/A) pseudo-randomnoise (PRN) code and the precision (P) PRN code. The C/A-code has a1.023 MHZ chip rate, and the P code has a 10.23 MHZ chip rate. The L2signal is centered around a frequency of 1227.6 MHZ and, at present, theonly PRN code it carries it the P-code. The PRN codes are different foreach of the GPS satellites deployed and allow use of a plurality of GPSsatellite signals transmitted at the same frequency. In contrast, eachGLONASS satellite transmits using a carrier frequency uniquely assignedto that satellite.

Different types of PRN codes are used for different system applications.For example, within the GPS system, C/A code is used for low cost, lessaccurate commercial applications, and P-code is used for higher accuracymilitary applications. Each GPS satellite is assigned PRN codes uniqueto that satellite. In the case of GLONASS, all satellites use the samePRN code(s). For each SATPS satellite, the transmitted signal comprisesthe carrier modulated with low frequency (50 Hz, i.e., 20 msec period,for GPS) digital data bits, which include information such as thesatellite's ephemeris (i.e., position), current time of day, and systemstatus information, and further modulated with one or more PRN codes.

The typical SATPS receiver receives a composite signal consisting of oneor more of the signals transmitted by the satellites within view, thatis within a direct line-of-sight, as well as noise and any interferingsignals. Because the signal transmitted by each satellite uses a PRNcode or a carrier frequency unique to that satellite, the receiver mayseparate the signals from different satellites using code divisionmultiple access (e.g., each GPS satellite has a unique PRN code) orfrequency division multiple access (e.g., each GLONASS satellite has aunique carrier frequency) techniques. The composite signal is first fedto a down-converter which amplifies and filters the incoming compositesignal, mixes it with a locally generated carrier reference signal, andthus produces a composite intermediate frequency (IF) signal. For a GPSreceiver, a decoder or channel circuit then correlates the compositesignal by multiplying it by a locally generated version of the PRN codesignal assigned to a particular satellite of interest. If the locallygenerated PRN code signal is properly timed, the digital data from thatparticular satellite is then properly detected.

The PRN codes also provide a mechanism to precisely determine the signaltransmission time from each satellite. By determining the transmissiontime from at least four satellites, and knowing each satellite'sephemeris and approximate time of day information, the receiver's threedimensional position, velocity and precise time of day may becalculated.

For more information on the format of the GPS system signals, see“Interface Control Document ICD-GPS-200, Sep. 26, 1984”, published byRockwell International Corporation, Satellite Systems Division, Downey,Calif. 90241.

For more information on the format of the GLONASS system signals, see“The GLONASS System Technical Characteristics and Performance,@ WorkingPaper, Special Committee on Future Air Navigation Systems (FANS),International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Fourth Meeting,Montreal, Quebec, Canada, May 2-20, 1988.

There are many practical applications of SATPS receivers in which lowSNR and fast acquisition are desirable, including, for example,operation of GPS receivers indoors, where the SNR available foracquisition and measurements may be substantially below normal GPSminimum received power levels. As another example, when a GPS receiverhas been powered down for a significant length of time, knowledge ofoscillator offset and time may be degraded. Fast acquisition improvementwould allow the receiver to respond quickly after power-on with aposition fix. Low SNR militates against fast acquisition. Since thesearch for low satellites under low SNR involves longer integrationtimes, each search bin must be serviced rapidly in order to havereasonable response time.

Some attempts to achieve fast acquisition under low SNR are disclosed inthe prior art. U.S. Pat. No. 5,663,734 describes a method for storing aone-second snapshot of IF samples in a memory device. The samples aresubsequently processed in the frequency domain by a high speed digitalsignal processor to reduce acquisition time under low SNR.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,420,593 issued to M. Niles and assigned to TrimbleNavigation Ltd. describes an apparatus and method for more rapidlyacquiring GPS signals by storing digital samples in a memory device andreading them back into a correlator device at a clock rate substantiallyhigher than the sampling rate.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide improved signalacquisition and measurement in satellite positioning system receiversand in particular to provide fast acquisition by SATPS receivers underlow SNR.

In accordance with an independent aspect of the invention, an enhanceddigital channel processor for a satellite positioning system (SATPS)receiver is provided, comprising a memory processor having a storagedevice. During a low SNR and/or fast acquisition mode, said memoryprocessor accumulates samples of a down-converted SATPS signal that aresubstantially identically positioned within corresponding ones of aplurality of PRN code repetition periods in an integration period,stores in said storage device the accumulated sums for the respectivesample positions of the PRN code repetition period, and plays back at asubstantially accelerated rate the sums stored in said storeage devicefor the respective sample positions.

In accordance with another independent aspect of the invention, there isprovided, in a system wherein an incoming signal is transmitted insuccessive PRN code repetition periods, an enhanced processor comprisinga memory for accumulating digital samples of said signal, said samplesbeing substantially identically positioned within respective ones ofsaid periods; and playback apparatus for playing back the accumulatedsamples for each of said positions at a rate that is accelerated ascompared to the rate at which said memory accumulates said samples.

The features of the present invention provide accelerated detection ofsignals and more accurate measurement after the signal is found.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and numerous other objectives, features and advantages thatmay be achieved by the present invention may be more readily understoodfrom the following detailed description by referring to the accompanyingdrawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a high-level block diagram showing one embodiment of a GPSreceiver which incorporates the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a filter/low-noise amplifier (LNA) in a GPSreceiver in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a radio-frequency section (RF section) in aGPS receiver in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a frequency synthesizer in a GPS receiverin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of digital channels processors including amix of standard digital channels processors and enhanced digitalchannels processors in a GPS receiver in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of memory address logic in the digital channelprocessors shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a standard digital channel processor shownin FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an enhanced digital channel processor in aGPS receiver which is in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a memory processor in the enhanced digitalchannel processor shown in FIG. 8 which is in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a multiplexor in the memory processorshown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an adder processor in the memory processorshown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a control processor in the memoryprocessor shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 13 is a timing diagram (not to scale) of the memory processor shownin FIG. 9;

FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of a GPS receiverwhich incorporates the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of an enhanced digitalchannel processor in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 16 a is a block diagram of a basic decimation filter in a GPSreceiver;

FIG. 16 b is a block diagram of a decimation filter in a GPS receiver inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a code mixer in a digital channelprocessor in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 18 a and 18 b are graphic representations of a relationshipbetween data bit offset and SNR loss in a GPS receiver in accordancewith the present invention;

FIGS. 19 a and 19 b are graphic representations of a relationshipbetween carrier frequency offset and SNR loss in a GPS receiver inaccordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 20 a and 20 b are histograms of accumulator output in a GPSreceiver in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 21 a and 21 b are histograms of decimator output in a GPS receiverin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a graphic representation of pseudorange accuracy in a narrowband mode and a wide band mode in a GPS receiver in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 23 is a graphic representation of use of correlation values forcomputing pseudorange in a GPS receiver in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 24 is a graphic representation of a relationship between input SNRand percentage of correct transition detection in a GPS receiver inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a flow chart of a method of operation in a narrowband mode ofan enhanced digital channel processor in a GPS receiver which is inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a flow chart of a method of operation in a wideband mode ofan enhanced digital channel processor in a GPS receiver which is inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 27 is a flow chart of a method for removing carrier phaseuncertainty which is in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 28 is a flow chart of a method of extended integration with carrierphase rotation which is in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the invention there is provided an enhanced digitalchannel processor for a satellite positioning system receiver whichincludes a memory processor that accumulates samples that aresubstantially identically positioned within respective PRN coderepetition periods. The memory processor plays back the accumulated sumsfor each code position at an accelerated rate.

The invention also provides a method of fast acquisition and measurementat a low SNR for a satellite positioning system receiver, whichcomprises the steps of accumulating samples that are substantiallyidentically positioned within respective PRN code repetition periods,and playing back at a substantially accelerated rate the accumulatedsums corresponding to each code position.

The invention is described below using a GPS receiver for L1 C/A-code asan example. The invention is equally applicable to other types ofsatellite positioning system receivers for C/A or other PRN codes, suchas GLONASS and other spread spectrum-based systems. The frequencies andclock rates disclosed in the detailed embodiment are by way of anenabling example of the invention; they do not limit the invention asbroadly conceived.

FIG. 1 shows an overview of one embodiment of a satellite positioningsystem receiver in accordance with the invention. GPS receiver 1includes antenna 11, filter/LNA 12, RF section 13, frequency synthesizer14, master oscillator 15, digital channel processors 16, Real Time Clock(RTC) 17 and microprocessor 18.

Antenna 11 provides a means of receiving the GPS L1 signal. Block 11 maycomprise a patch antenna such as that described in U.S. Pat. No.5,515,057, AGPS Receiver with N-Point Symmetrical Feed Double-FrequencyPatch Antenna,@ issued to Lennen et al. Antenna 11 supplies signalL1_ANT to filter/LNA 12. Other antennas known in the art may be used aswell. Filter/LNA 12 filters the incoming signal to remove out-of-bandinterference and then performs a low noise amplification designed to setthe receiver's noise figure. Filter/LNA 12 supplies signal L1_RF to RFsection 13.

RF section 13 provides further filtering and amplification, and alsoperforms frequency translation, quantization and sampling. The quantizedand sampled in-phase and quadrature signals (I_(L1) and Q_(L1)) aresupplied to digital channel processors 16.

Frequency synthesizer 14 provides a number of frequencies and clocksused throughout the receiver. Frequency synthesizer 14 itself is drivenby signal OSC from master oscillator 15 (nominally 5 MHZ). Allfrequencies and clocks used by the receiver for frequency translation,local signal generation or measurement timing may be derived from theOSC signal. Frequency synthesizer 14 provides two local oscillatorsignals (LO₁ and LO₂), two sample clock rates (S₁ and S₂), and a 1 kHztiming signal (msec).

Master oscillator 15 may take the form, among others, of an XO (crystaloscillator), a TCXO (temperature controlled crystal oscillator) or aDCXO (digitally controlled crystal oscillator). Use of the DCXO has theadvantage that the maximum oscillator frequency offset may be controlledby the microprocessor. This process and how it relates to the inventionwill be described below.

RTC 17 maintains receiver time and is driven from the OSC signal. RTC 17may be used to maintain time when the rest of the receiver is poweredOFF.

Digital channel processors (DCPs) 16 process the incoming samples(I_(L1) and Q_(L1)) to facilitate satellite tracking, measurementprocessing and satellite data extraction. DCPs 16 comprise two types oftracking channels. DCPs of the first type, standard digital channelprocessor (SDCP), exist in the prior art and provide standardacquisition and tracking functionality. DCPs of the second kind,enhanced digital channel processors (EDCP), have additional circuitryfor achieving improved SNR and fast acquisition performance. A channel,either EDCP or SDCP, is designed to search for a single satellite at anyone time.

As FIG. 5 shows, the receiver 16 employs not only EDCPs but also SDCPs.This minimizes the use of the extra hardware associated with the EDCPstructure. As an example, a 16-channel receiver containing 12 SDCPs and4 EDCPs allows a large number of channels for standard trackingoperation together with enough EDCPs to achieve low SNR and fastacquisition when required. It is also important to note that an EDCP canachieve low SNR and fast acquisition and perform continuous trackingfunctions. The EDCP may be switched by the microprocessor between fastacquisition and continuous tracking modes.

DCPs 16 interact closely with microprocessor 18. Microprocessor 18 mayperform many functions including controlling the acquisition andtracking processes, measurement processing, and receiving externalSatellite Acquisition Aiding Information (SAAI). The SAAI may includeany information which may be used by the receiver to reduce thetime/frequency uncertainty window, including time and/or frequencyinformation measured or otherwise obtained, as from a cell phone signal.Another example of SAAI is information regarding the SVs that are inview, which may be used to direct a channel to a satellite with a knownazimuth (i.e., angular distance from north) and elevation (i.e. locationabove the horizon).

Filter/LNA

FIG. 2 shows details of a filter/LNA. Filter/LNA 12 comprises bandpassfilter (BPF) 21 and LNA 22. Bandpass filter 21 filters the GPS L1 signalL1_ANT supplied by antenna 11. The nominal center frequency of bandpassfilter 21 is the nominal L1 carrier frequency (1575.42 MHZ). Thebandwidth of bandpass filter 21 may take on a number of values rangingfrom approximately 2 MHZ to 30 MHZ. 30 MHZ is the approximate bandwidthof the signal transmitted from GPS satellites. Operation of bandpassfilter 21 at 30 MHZ encompasses a wideband mode (WB) which will bedescribed in more detail below.

The output of bandpass filter 21 is amplified by LNA block 22. LNA block22 typically has a noise figure (NF) of ˜1 dB and a gain between 20 dBand 50 dB. The NF of LNA block 22 and in-band filter loss of bandpassfilter 21 effectively sets the NF for the entire receiver. Low SNR andfast acquisition receiver operations are sensitive to receiver losses.The receiver's performance may be improved noticeably through a prudentselection of bandpass filter and LNA parameters to lower filter loss inbandpass filter 21 and reduce the NF of LNA 22.

RF Section

FIG. 3 shows details of an RF section 13. RF section 13 comprises mixer31, bandpass filter 32, amplifier 33, phase shifter 35, mixer 34, filter36, amplifier 37, quantizer 38, sampler 39, mixer 25, filter 26,amplifier 27, quantizer 28, and sampler 29. The input signal L1_RF (at1575.42 MHZ) supplied by filter/LNA 12 (FIG. 1) is frequency translatedby mixer 31 using local oscillator signal LO₁. The resulting output ofmixer 31 is at a nominal frequency of 175.42 MHZ, and is filtered byfilter 32 to remove the image frequency created during the mixingoperation of mixer 31. Filter 32 may take the form of a surface acousticwave (SAW) filter for optimal out-of-band interference rejection. Thesignal is further amplified by amplifier 33 before being supplied tomixers 34 and 25. Mixer 34 mixes the L1_IF signal supplied by amplifier33 with the output of phase shifter 35. Phase shifter 35 creates aninety-degree phase shifted version of local oscillator signal LO₂. Theoutput of mixer 34 is an in-phase signal with a carrier that has beenfrequency translated to a nominal frequency of 420 kHz. The output ofmixer 34 is filtered in filter 36 to remove the image frequencygenerated by mixer 34 and to provide a bandwidth compatible with theNyquist sampling theorem. The output of filter 36 is further amplifiedin amplifier 37 before being quantized in quantizer block 38. The outputof quantizer 38 is sampled in sampler 39. Sampler 39 operates at a ratedetermined by the S₁ clock signal (nominally 2.5 MHZ in thisembodiment), which should be consistent with the Nyquist samplingrequirement as pertaining to the PRN code information in the sampledsignal.

The combination of mixer 25, bandpass filter 26, amplifier 27, quantizer28 and sampler 29 operate identically to mixer 34, bandpass filter 36,amplifier 37, quantizer 38 and sampler 39, respectively, as describedabove, to produce the quadrature output signal Q_(L1).

There are potential losses in filter 36, quantizer 38 and sampler 39.These losses directly impact the receiver's performance in terms of itsability to operate on low SNR signals and to perform fast acquisition.The bandwidth of filter 36 should not be made too narrow (e.g., <1 MHZ)as this results in a significant filtering loss SNR degradation. Thenumber of bits used in the quantizer is also important. Quantizationloss is well known in the art, as described, for example in AGlobalPositioning System: Theory and Applications,@ Volume 1, pages 717-771.Table 1 below shows the SNR loss for a number of quantization options.Also shown is the increase in integration time required to recover theloss, which demonstrates approximately the same performance as aquantizer with a very large number of bits and diminishing SNR loss.TABLE 1 Quantization Bits SNR Loss (dBs) Integration Time 1 1.96 1.57 20.55 1.14 3 0.16 1.04

Many GPS receivers have been designed with 1-bit quantization forsimplicity. The simplification impacts the quantizer design and the ‘fanout’ effect of bits in the DCPs. When seeking to optimize low SNR andfast acquisition modes, it is preferable to minimize receiver losses andtheir effects (as shown in the Integration Time column in Table 1).Hence, it is preferable in the current embodiment to use a multi-bitquantization. A good engineering trade-off between performance andcomplexity is to use 2-bit quantization. Two-bit quantization would beused in the preferred embodiment described herein, although FIG. 3 showsa generic J-bit quantization, and other multi-bit quantizations may beused. Signals I_(L1) and Q_(L1) output from the RF section are 2-bitquantized and sampled versions of the incoming frequency-translatedin-phase and quadrature GPS L1 signal.

Frequency Synthesizer

FIG. 4 shows details of a frequency synthesizer. Frequency synthesizer14 comprises phase detector 41, loop filter 42, voltage controlledoscillator (VCO) 43, divide-by-8 block 44, divide-by-7 block 45,divide-by-5 block 46 divide-by-10 block 47 and divide-by-2500 block 48.

All output signals of frequency synthesizer 14 may be derived from theinput signal OSC supplied by master oscillator 15. Phase detector 41,loop filter 42, VCO 43, divide-by-8 block 44, divide-by-7 block 45 anddivide-by-5 block 46 form a phase locked loop. Output signals are tappedfrom various parts of the loop. The output of VCO 43 provides the LO₁signal at a frequency of 1400 MHZ. The output of VCO 43 is divided by 8to provide the LO₂ signal at a frequency of 175 MHZ. The output ofdivide-by-8 block 44 is divided by 7 to provide signal S₂ at a clockrate 25 MHZ. The output of divide-by-7 block 45 is supplied todivide-by-10 block 47 which provides the signal S₁ at a clock rate of2.5 MHz. S₁ is further divided by 2500 to provide the signal msec at aclock rate of 1 kHz.

Divide-by-10 block 47 and divide-by-2500 block 48 are provided with areset signal with which RTC 17 may synchronize these blocks with itsknowledge of time, after the receiver is powered ON.

The LO₁ and LO₂ signals are used to frequency translate the incomingsatellite signal in RF section 13. The msec signal is used by DCPs 16 aspart of its timing for measurements. Clock signals S₁ and S₂ are alsoused by DCPs 16. Signal S₁ may be used for sampling the signal in RFsection 13 and is used by the SDCPs. Signals S₁ and S₂ are both used bythe EDCPs. The relative rates of S₁ and S₂ provide part of the speedgain when searching for signal power, as will be explained later.

Digital Channel Processors

FIG. 5 shows a mix of SDCPs and EDCPs in DCP block 16. DCP block 16comprises N SDCPs and M EDCPs. DCP 16 also includes memory address logic53 for providing addressing capability for the memory processor in eachEDCP. Operation of memory address logic 53 is described below inconnection with FIG. 6.

Msec Memory Address Logic

FIG. 6 shows details of memory address logic 53. Block 53 providesaddress lines and read/write cycle control for the memory processor ofthe EDCPs. Memory address logic 53 comprises read/write counter 61 forgenerating address signals a₁, read counter 62 for generating addresssignals a₂, comparator 63, OR-gate 64, read cycle generator 65 forgenerating read cycle signal r_(c), and read/write cycle generator 66for generating read/write cycle signal rw_(c). Address lines a₁ and a₂(Z bits wide covering the addressing range of the memory devices), andread/write cycle signals r_(c) and rw_(c) are synchronized to the msecsignal. A separate memory processor in each EDCP a selects a particularmsec signal to start its 20 msec integration.

Fast memory read operation is controlled by address lines a₂ and readcycle signal r_(c). For clock signal S₂=25 MHZ and clock signal S₁=2.5MHZ, address lines a₂ cycle through their range of values 10 times permsec cycle. Depending on how the memory cycles are set up for aparticular memory device, read cycle signal r_(c) may just be a constantvalue which places the memory in read mode.

The read/write operation performed when accumulating over 20 msecs iscontrolled by address lines a₁ and read/write cycle signal rw_(c).Address lines a₁ cycles through their range of values (for example 0through 2499) once every msec cycle. The read/write cycle signal rw_(c)provides the ability to read a value and then write the accumulation ofthat value with the incoming signal back into the same memory location.The exact structure of rw_(c) depends on the type of memory being used.Signal NZ is the maximum address value (e.g., NZ=2499) and is comparedwith address lines a₂ by comparator 63. When address lines a₂ equalmaximum value NZ, read counter 62 is reset.

Standard Digital Channel Processor

FIG. 7 shows details of a standard digital channel processor. Operationsof SDCPs are well known in the art and are described in, for example,U.S. Pat. No. 5,541,606, AW-Code Enhanced Cross Correlation SatellitePositioning System Receiver,@ issued to G. R. Lennen, which isincorporated by reference herein. A brief description of SDCPs inconnection with FIG. 7 will also be provided below.

SDCP 70, which represents any of SDCPs 51-1 to 51-N (FIG. 5), comprisescomplex mixer 71, carrier NCO 72, code mixer 73, C/A code generator 74,correlators 75 and code NCO 76. Input samples I_(L1) and Q_(L1) (bothJ-bit quantized) supplied by RF section 13 are frequency translated tobaseband signals I_(BB) and Q_(BB) (both W-bit) by complex mixer 71.Carrier NCO 72 provides to complex mixer 71 in-phase and quadraturelocal oscillator signals I_(L) and Q_(L) (both M-bit) which match theexpected carrier frequency present in samples I_(L1) and Q_(L1) Complexmixer 71 performs the following operations:I _(BB) =I _(L1) ×I _(L) +Q _(L) ×Q _(L1)Q _(BB) =Q _(L1) ×I _(L) −I _(L1) ×Q _(L)

The output signals I_(BB) and Q_(BB) represent in-phase and quadraturesignals, respectively, with the carrier substantially removed. Whensearching through possible carrier frequency bins, the receiver'suncertainty in carrier frequency is manifested in the frequency offsetbetween the pair of I_(L1), Q_(L1) signals and the pair of I_(L), Q_(L)samples. Signals I_(BB) and Q_(BB) are further processed by code mixer73, which compares the incoming samples with delayed versions of thelocally generated C/A code (usually at times that are early, punctualand late with respect to the incoming satellite C/A code). C/A codegenerator 74 provides the locally generated C/A code and a C/A Epochsignal. The C/A Epoch signal repeats at a nominal 1 kHz rate (i.e. C/Acode repetition rate) and is fed into correlators 75. Both C/A codegenerator 74 and C/A Epoch signal timing are known in the art, asdescribed in, for example, AGPS Interface Control Document ICD-GPS-200,@published by Rockwell International Corporation, Satellite SystemsDivision, Revision B-PR, Jul. 3, 1991. Correlators 75 accumulate thecorrelations between local and incoming signals across a period definedby an integer multiple of the C/A Epoch period. C/A Code generator 74 isdriven by a signal N_(CLK) provided by code NCO 76. The N_(CLK) signalis at a nominal clock rate of 1.023 MHZ.

The outputs of correlators 75 are read by microprocessor 18 at a ratedefined by an integer multiple of the C/A Epoch period. Microprocessor18 uses the correlator values to perform a number of functions,including closing code and carrier tracking loops, and extracting asatellite's 50 Baud data message. Microprocessor 18 feeds back itsfiltered estimate of the error in the carrier phase locked loop to theinput of carrier NCO 72. Microprocessor 18 feeds back its filteredestimate of the error in the code tracking loop to the input of code NCO76.

The number of correlators in correlators 75 is by definition the numberof accumulators that microprocessor 18 can read. Increasing the numberof accumulators allows a faster signal search rate. As an example,assume that the correlators block of an SDCP contains 4 correlators, twoI and two Q correlators. Power is detected in the combination of I and Qas follows for a particular pair of accumulators n.Signal Power=(I _(n))²+(Q _(n))²

This signal power estimate is compared with a threshold, above which apositive signal power detection is declared. Assume power detectionrequires a signal integration period of 20 milliseconds, carrierfrequency uncertainty is 1 kHz (providing 40×25 Hz carrier bins), andtime is known within an accuracy of 100 microseconds (providing 205×0.5chip code phase bins). The total number of bins to search is therefore40×205=8,200. The four accumulator correlators can search 1 carrierfrequency bin and two code phase bins every 20 milliseconds. Hence, themaximum search time under these circumstances is as follows:Maximum search=8,200×0.02/2=82 seconds

The example described above demonstrates an unacceptable search time formany applications. The invention described herein helps alleviate thisproblem.

Enhanced Digital Channel Processor

FIG. 8 shows details of one embodiment of an enhanced digital channelprocessor in accordance with the present invention. EDCP 80, whichrepresents any of EDCPs 52-1 to 52-M (FIG. 5), comprises complex mixer81, carrier NCO 82, memory processor 83, Mux 84, code mixer 85, C/A codegenerator 86, code NCO 87, correlators 88 and multiplexor or Mux 89.

Input signal samples (I_(L1), Q_(L1)) are processed by complex mixer 81,in a manner similar to the operation of mixer 71 described above, alongwith in-phase and quadrature local oscillator signal I_(L), Q_(L)supplied by carrier NCO 82. The output signals I_(BB), Q_(BB) suppliedby complex mixer 84 are further processed by memory processor 83 and Mux84. Mux 84, under control of the microprocessor, selects either theI_(BB), Q_(BB) signals or I_(K), Q_(K) signals as its output. Whenoperating in normal mode (i.e., not low SNR or fast acquisition) theoutputs I′_(BB), Q′_(BB) come from the signals I_(BB), Q_(BB), andcircuitry in memory processor 83 may be powered down to save batteryusage. This mode is equivalent to continuous tracking using an SDCP(i.e. when signal location is already known).

Mux 89 is used to select the form of clock S₃ under the control of themicroprocessor. There are two choices: S₁, a slow clock of 2.5 MHZ; andS₂, a fast clock of 25 MHZ. Code mixer 85, correlators 88 and code NCO87 are driven from clock S₃. When running in normal mode, S₃ takes theform of the slow clock. When running in low SNR/fast acquisition mode,S₃ takes the form of the fast clock.

Carrier NCO 82 is used to select the carrier frequency bin to search.The combination of memory processor 83 and fast playback circuitryembodied in code mixer 85, correlators 88, C/A code generator 86 andcode NCO 87 provides the rapid code phase search process. Memoryprocessor 83 accumulates samples that are identically positioned withinthe code epoch period in the incoming C/A code. GPS data bits are 20msecs long and hence this summation may be done over a 20 msec period(or longer integration period if data bit transitions are known). Thistechnique relies on the C/A code repetition period of one msec (i.e.rate of 1 kHz). The 20 msec summations (I_(K), Q_(K)) of the incomingsignal are then played back at the faster clock rate through the codecorrelation circuitry. Memory processor 83 increases the effective codesearch rate by a factor of 20, and the code correlation circuitryincreases it independently by a factor of 10, to provide an improvementby a factor of 200 in code phase search rates. These numbers areexemplary. If the memory processor accumulates for longer, 100 msecsinstead of 20 msecs for example, and the playback fast clock rate isincreased, further improvement may be achieved. For example,accumulating over 100 msecs and playing back at 100 MHZ instead of 25MHZ improves the search rate by a factor of 4,000.

Accumulating for periods longer than 20 msecs in the memory processormay require knowledge of data bit transitions. This information may beprovided either by an external source (e.g., via a communication link),by estimation, or from previous SV data knowledge gained while locked tothe SV. The estimation technique will be described in more detail below.

FIG. 8 also shows that the EDCP has a greater number of code correlationpositions than the SDCP has. Code mixer 85 outputs signals(I_(1 . . . N), Q_(1 . . . N)) Signal I_(1 . . . N) represents Ntime-delayed comparisons between the incoming C/A code and the locallygenerated C/A code for the in-phase signal (Q_(1 . . . N) is thequadrature equivalent). N accumulators are required in correlators 88for each of I and Q. Increasing the number of correlators from 4 (as inthe SDCP) to 8 would allow a signal search at twice the rate. This maybe used in conjunction with memory processor 83 and fast playbacktechnique to further improve the search speed for both low SNR and fastacquisition requirements.

The signals I_(K) and Q_(K) need not maintain all the bits acquiredduring the accumulation process of the memory processor. For example, ifJ=2, M=2, W=3 and the memory processor accumulates for 20 msecs, I_(K)and Q_(K) may be 7 bits each. To minimize hardware in code mixer 85 andcorrelators 88, the number of bits in I_(K) and Q_(K) may be reduced to3 bits (same as W) with only a small loss in SNR by intelligent choiceof bit thresholds. This process will be described in more detail later.

Following the search example described above in connection with theSDCP, the EDCP is used to search the 8,200 bins using 4 correlators. TheEDCP searches 1 carrier frequency bin and (20×10=) 200 code phase binsevery 20 msecs. Hence, the total search time for the EDCP isapproximately given by:Maximum search=8,200×0.02/(2×200)=0.41 seconds

This represents a significant improvement over the prior art.

Memory Processor Block

FIG. 9 shows more details of a memory processor 83. Memory processor 83comprises control processor 91, adder processor 92, two pairs of basicmemory blocks I Memory 93 a, Q Memory 93 b and I Memory 94 a, Q Memory94 b, and MUX 95. I Memory 93 a and Q Memory 93 b form a memory pairthat undergoes identical addressing modes. For example, they my bedriven from the same address A, and they may both be in read only cycleat the same time. I Memory 94 a and Q Memory 94 b form the other memorypair.

Typically, when one of the memory pairs is being written to, the othermemory pair is being read back into the fast playback correlationprocess. While the memory pair that is being written to operates at theslow clock rate, the memory that is being read from would be operatingat the fast clock rate. This buffering process allows the last 20 msecmemory accumulation to be processed by the fast correlators while thenext 20 msec memory accumulation is being collected. Each of the memorydevices (I Memory 93 a, Q Memory 93 b, I Memory 94 a, Q Memory 94 b)contains enough storage space for all input samples during a one msecperiod. When a 2.5 MHZ slow clock is used, this leads to storage of 2500words for each of the memory devices. The width of each word in storagewould be dependent on the number of bits in the input signal (I_(BB),Q_(BB)) and the period over which the accumulation is to take place. Amemory word width of Y bits is shown in FIG. 9.

The physical memory type used in the memory processor may be one of avariety of different types. Examples include static RAM (SRAM) anddynamic RAM (DRAM). Depending on the state of the art in memory devices,SRAM may be faster (allowing higher clock rates), while DRAM may useless surface area in an integrated circuit and may be cheaper. Othermemory devices may be used. The main requirement is that the memorydevice may play back at an accelerated rate.

Addressing modes for the memory devices are controlled via controlprocessor 91. Block 91 receives inputs a₁, a₂, r_(c) and rw_(c)(generated by memory address logic block 53 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6), andoutputs addresses A₁ and A₂ and memory cycle control signals rw₁ andrw₂. The signals a₁, a₂, r_(c) and rw_(c) apply to all channels. Thesignals A₁, A₂, rw₁ and rw ₂ apply to a specific EDCP channel.

FIG. 10 shows MUX 95 in more detail. Block 95 comprises multiplexors Mux101 and Mux 102, comparators 103 and comparators 104. The multiplexorsare used to select which data buses (memory pair 1 or 2) are directed tothe output of MUX 95 (FIG. 9). The s_(t) signal toggles back and forthbetween driving memory blocks 1 and 2. The outputs of Mux 101 and Mux102 are supplied to the inputs of comparators 103 and comparators 104,respectively. The purpose of the comparators is to reduce the number ofbits (H) in the outputs (I_(K), Q_(K)) from the Y-bit inputs. Themicroprocessor provides an input for each bit on the output. Forexample, if Y=7 and H=3, then the sign bit from Y, Y having a range ±64,may be maintained as the most significant bit of H, a second bit of Hmay be formed by comparing the magnitude of Y with the value 42, and athird bit of H may be formed by comparing the magnitude of Y with thevalue 20.

Alternatively, a less complex circuit that only selects the top N-bitsof the Y-bit number, may be used. The advantage of the more complexcircuit is that it is more optimal in terms of reducing signal to noiseratio loss when reducing the number of output bits.

Adder Processor Block

FIG. 11 shows more details of an adder processor 92 of FIG. 9. Adderprocessor 92 comprises Mux 111, inverter 112, adder 113, Mux 114, Mux115, inverter 116, adder 117, Mux 118, flip-flop INV FF 119, MUX 108 anddemultiplexor or DMUX 109. The incoming digitized sample streams(I_(BB), Q_(BB)) are supplied to Mux 111 and Mux 115, respectively. Thesample streams also pass through respective inverters 112 and 116 whichprovide inverted versions of respective sample stream (I_(BB), Q_(BB))at their outputs. Mux 111 and Mux 115, therefore, both have the datastreams and inverted data streams as their inputs. The signal s_(inv)selects one set of inputs to be passed to the outputs of Mux 111 and Mux115. INV FF 119 is a flip-flop that is clocked by the signal s_(p) sothat a value provided by the microprocessor is latched to form signals_(inv) at the start of each 20 msec memory accumulation period. Thesignal s_(inv) then determines whether the outputs of Mux 111 and Mux115 are inverted or non-inverted versions of the incoming signal streamsI_(BB), Q_(BB). Through this mechanism the data bit transitions can beaccounted for, so that longer integration periods (e.g., 100 msecs) maybe accommodated.

The select lines of Mux 114 and Mux 118 are each coupled to signals_(pe), so that during the first millisecond of a particular satellite'sintegration period the outputs are taken from the outputs of Mux 114 andMux 118, respectively. This allows the first value loaded into memory tobe initialized, rather than accumulated with a previously stored memoryvalue. Some memory devices have this initialization mode built in andhence can use the signal s_(pe) directly, without requiring Mux 114 orMux 118.

MUX 108 selects the memory data paths from memory pair 1 or 2, accordingto the s_(t) signal supplied to its select input. Each 20 millisecondsthe outputs of MUX 108 toggle between memory pairs 1 and 2.

During each S_(t) sample clock period, except during the firstmillisecond of an integration period, the value currently stored in thememory pair that is being written to is read and accumulated in I Adder113 (and similarly in Q Adder 117) with the incoming signal samplevalue, i.e. output of Mux 111 and Mux 115. The outputs of Mux 114 andMux 118 (I_(sum) and Q_(sum)) are then written back into the memoryaddress. DMUX 109 selects the data bus, memory pair 1 or 2, to whichI_(sum) and Q_(sum) is passed according to the integration period togglesignal s_(t).

Adder processor 92 is used during the memory write phase of operationwhich is performed at the slow sample clock rate of S₁. If 20milliseconds is the longest integration time required then Mux 111, Mux115, INV FF 119, inverter 112 and inverter 116 may be eliminated.

Control Processor

FIG. 12 shows a control processor 91 (FIG. 9) in more detail. Controlprocessor 91 comprises Mux 121, Mux 122, inverter 123, Mux 124, Mux 125,inverter 126, pulse generator 127, Divide-by-N 128 and integrationperiod toggle generator 129. There is one control processor 91 per EDCPchannel. The purpose of the control processor is to allow a particularchannel to synchronize the address and read/write cycle signals to themillisecond that lines up most accurately with a particular satellite's50 Baud data bit edge. Local (one channel only) address lines A₁, A₂ areextracted from global (i.e. sent to all EDCP channels) address lines a₁and a₂. This selection process is performed using Mux 121 and Mux 122.When A₁ is used for the write memory mode, A₂ is used for the readmemory fast playback mode. The integration period toggle signal s_(t) isused to select the mode for which A₁ and A₂ would be used during anyintegration period. The read/write cycle that a memory pair is in duringany integration period is similarly selected via Mux 124 and Mux 125.Inverter block 123 places the output of Mux 122 in a state opposite tothat of Mux 121. Similarly, invert block 126 places the output of Mux125 in a state opposite to the state of Mux 124.

Pulse generator 127 clocked by signal msec (the particular msec beingselected by the microprocessor) generates an output signal s_(p) whichfurther drives Divide-by-N block 128, which in turn drives integrationperiod toggle generator 129. The microprocessor selects the initialstate of pulse generator 127 and toggle generator 129 (via their resetinputs), which selects the mode that each memory pair initially enters.The microprocessor provides the value N used by Divide-by-N block 128,which in turn determines the integration period in integer multiples of20 milliseconds. For example, a value of N=2 leads to an integrationperiod of 40 milliseconds.

Memory Signal Timing

FIG. 13 shows, although not to scale, the timing associated with some ofthe important signals in memory processor 83 (FIG. 8). Signals s_(t),s_(p) and s_(pe) are generated by control processor 91 (FIG. 9), andsignal s_(inv) is generated by adder processor 92. All four signals havetimings related to the 20 msec data bit from a particular satellite.Signal s_(t) toggles every N×20 msecs and is used to toggle modesbetween memory pairs 1 and 2. FIG. 13 shows s_(t) toggling every 40msecs to provide an integration period of 40 msecs. Signal s_(p) is sethigh for the first millisecond of a 20 msec period, and is used by INVFF 119 described above in connection with FIG. 11 to latch in the databit value provided by the microprocessor. Signal s_(pe) is set high forthe first millisecond of a N×20 msec integration period, and is used toclear the first memory entry when writing to a memory pair during thefirst millisecond of the N×20 msec period. The signal s_(inv) isprovided by INV FF 119, and may be controlled by the microprocessor inaccordance with knowledge of the satellite's data bits (e.g. from SAAIsource) to allow integration periods of longer than 20 msecs.

Addition of Decimation Filter

FIG. 14 shows a second embodiment of a GPS receiver 140 in accordancewith the present invention. GPS receiver 140 is similar to GPS receiver1 (FIG. 1) and has decimation filter 141 in addition.

Use of a higher signal sampling rate has the benefits of reduced noiseand multipath mitigation. Decimation filter 141 allows the receiver tohave a higher incoming sampling rate (e.g. 25 MHZ) along with fastacquisition and low SNR. If a higher sampling clock is used without theuse of a decimation filter the memory required would be much larger andthe relative playback speed benefit would be considerably less.

Decimation filters are well known in the art, as described, for example,in ADSP Primer@, C. B. Rorabaugh, pages 333-340, ISBN 0-07-054004-7. Thepurpose of such a filter is to slow the sampling rate down from input tooutput and also to reduce the bandwidth so that the Nyquist criterion ismet (required to ensure no signal-to-noise-ratio loss). The input samplerate of decimation filter 141 may be 25 MHZ (samples signals I_(L1),Q_(L1)) and the output sample rate may be 2.5 MHZ (samples signalsI_(L1)′, Q_(L1)′).

Enhanced Digital Channel Processor with Decimator

Alternatively, a decimation filter may be incorporated in the EnhancedDigital Channel Processor. FIG. 15 shows a second embodiment of an EDCPin accordance with the present invention. EDCP 150 is similar to EDCP 80(FIG. 8), and has in addition a decimation filter 151. Decimation filter151 is coupled to the outputs of complex mixer 81 in EDCP 150. Theoperation and purpose of decimation filter 151 are similar to those offilter 141 described above in connection with FIG. 14. One advantage ofincorporating the decimation filter in the EDCP rather than outside ofthe EDCP is that the decimation filtering is performed at carrierbaseband and hence there is less signal loss due to the filteringoperation. Also the mode of each EDCP may be controlled independently ofthe modes of the other EDCPs.

Basic Decimation Filter, Decimation Filter

FIG. 16 a shows one embodiment of a decimation filter that meets basicoperational requirements. In decimation filter 155, the signal isfiltered (in this case digitally filtered) by lowpass filter 158 whichmeets the Nyquist criterion for the slower output sampling rate. Theoutput signal of filter 158 is then sampled at the slower clock rate bysampling rate compressor 159.

FIG. 16 b shows an alternative embodiment of a decimation filter inaccordance with the present invention. In decimation filter 160,incoming samples (I_(L1), Q_(L1)) at the higher sample rate S2 areaccumulated in accumulators 161 and 164, respectively, over the periodof the slower clock S1. The accumulators act as the lowpass filter. Theoutputs of accumulators 161 and 164 are latched by latches 162 and 165,respectively, at the rate of the S1 clock, and the latched outputs aresupplied to comparators 163 and 166, respectively. Comparators 163 and166 provide a mechanism for reducing the number of digital bits requiredin the output, hence preventing excessive bit fan-out in subsequentcircuits that use these bits. Mux 167 is used to select whether the highrate or slow rate (decimated) samples are used as the output ofdecimation filter 160. This provides two possible modes for thereceiver. First, when the decimation filter is used (i.e. the outputs ofcomparators 163 and 166 are passed through Mux 167), this is an optimalsignal acquisition mode. Secondly, when signal power is found, the highrate samples (i.e. signals I_(L1), Q_(L1) are passed through Mux 167)may be used in ‘continuous tracking’ to provide a more accurate pseudorange measurement and also enhance multipath mitigation.

Code Mixer Block

FIG. 17 shows one embodiment of a code mixer block in accordance withthe present invention. In code mixer 170, N correlations are performedin each of the I and the Q signal paths. Shift register 171 generatesdelayed versions of the locally generated C/A code which are thenmultiplied by multiplexers M_(I1) through M_(IN) and M_(Q1) throughM_(QN) with the incoming signals (I′_(BB), Q′_(BB)) to provide multiplesignals (I_(1 . . . N), Q_(1 . . . N)) that are then accumulated in thecorrelators. Thus, block 170 is adapted for multiple correlators.

Data Bit Offset SNR Loss

The circuitry in the embodiments described above allows the integrationperiod to be aligned with the satellite's data bit edge to within ±0.5msecs. This provides significant circuit simplification as compared to acircuit that attempts to align the integration period exactly with thatof the satellite's data period. FIG. 18 a shows the worst case 50 Bauddata (alternating ones and zeros) and the loss associated with beingmisaligned with the satellite's actual data bit edge. The actualsatellite data stream may be considered random and this leads to less ofa loss. At 10 msec misalignment the worst case provides no signal outputover a 20 msec integration period.

FIG. 18 b provides a zoomed in view of the loss associated with a databit offset of less than 1 millisecond. The data bit offset of interestfor the current invention is a maximum of 0.5 msecs. FIG. 18 b shows amaximum loss of approximately 0.2 dB at 0.5 msecs offset. This isconsidered an acceptable engineering tradeoff for the circuitsimplifications gained. Also it is generally not possible to know theexact timing of the satellite's data bit edge, because of lack ofknowledge of user position and lack of knowledge of user clock offset.

Effect of Carrier Frequency Offset

The receiver as described above uses a carrier NCO to select a carrierfrequency bin for searching. There is an error associated with notknowing the satellite's received carrier frequency exactly. FIG. 19 ashows this loss. The product of the integration period and the carrierfrequency offset is plotted along the x-axis. For example, integrationover 20 msecs and a carrier frequency offset of 100 Hz gives a(unitless) value x=2. As FIG. 19 a shows, the receiver needs to know arelatively accurate carrier frequency offset, and to set the frequencydistance between carrier frequency search bins. This may be provided,for example, via the SAAI information or by using a reasonably goodoscillator (in terms of frequency drift).

FIG. 19 b is a zoomed-in view of the loss for a product less than 1. AsFIG. 19 b shows, x must be less than approximately 0.35 to reduce theloss due to carrier frequency offset to less than 2 dB. Translating thisinto an integration period of 20 msecs yields a maximum carrierfrequency offset of 17.5 Hz. In applications that require low SNRoperation it is important to minimize this loss. The receiver describedabove sets up a carrier NCO value and searches code phases rapidly atthis carrier frequency. If the search for power fails, the carrier NCOvalue is updated and the code phase search is repeated. The frequencydifference between these carrier NCO updates for the example given abovewould be 2×17.5 Hz=35 Hz.

Output of Memory Accumulation

FIGS. 20 a and 20 b show histograms used for determining the number ofbits (Y) required for successful operation in memory processor 83, asdescribed in connection with FIGS. 8 and 9. The histogram also allowsoptimal selection of comparator values for MUX 95. The histograms shownin FIGS. 20 a and 20 b are based on 2-bit quantized signals (I_(BB),Q_(BB)).

GPS satellite signals are generally received with negative signal tonoise ratio (i.e. the noise is significantly larger than the signal inthe code modulation bandwidth). The code correlation process providesthe gain necessary to extract a useful positive signal to noise ratio.The memory processor accumulates the signal plus noise before the codecorrelation process is performed by the fast playback circuitry. Hence,the resulting SNR in the summations is dominated by noise. The histogramof FIG. 20 a shows the output of accumulating over a 20 msec period. Thehistogram allows us to select an optimal number of bits for the memorydevices, in this case 6 bits (which allows a range of ±31). Theaccumulation may be stopped if it reaches values of ±31 during theaccumulation. FIG. 20 b shows a similar histogram while integrating overa 100 msec period. In this case 7 bits is more appropriate.

The optimal selection of comparator values in MUX 95 is linked to thestandard deviation of the expected output signal from the memoryprocessor. Optimal selection of levels when quantizing largely noisysignals is well known in the art, as described in, for example, AGlobalPositioning System: Theory and Applications@, Volume 1, ISBN1-56347-106-X. If an output of 3 bits from MUX 95 is required, thecomparator levels should be set to the standard deviation divided by thesquare root of three. For example, with a standard deviation of 18, asin the example shown in FIG. 20 a, comparator values would be set atapproximately 10 and 6 (the sign bit provides the third bit).

Decimator Output

The principles applied in FIGS. 20 a and 20 b apply when determining thenumber of bits in the output of the decimator filter, as described inconnection with FIG. 16 b. FIG. 21 a shows a histogram when thedecimator filter is used as described in connection with FIG. 14. FIG.21 b shows a histogram when the decimator is used as described inconnection with FIG. 15. Again the assumption that the accumulation ismostly noise-like still applies.

Pseudorange Accuracy

It is well known in the art, as described, for example, in “GlobalPositioning System: Theory and Applications”, Volume 1, ISBN1-56347-106-X, that use of a wider bandwidth improves the pseudorangeaccuracy. The invention provides a method for combining the acceleratedsignal search with the advantages of an improved pseudorange measurement(WB mode).

FIG. 22 illustrates the pseudorange accuracy expected for NB (narrowband) and WB (wideband) modes, for an input signal level of −150 dBm,versus the signal integration time used. When the bandwidth of the WBmode is 10 times that of the NB mode (requiring a sampling rate that is10 times higher), the pseudorange is expected to be sqrt(10) timesimproved for WB mode. This becomes particularly significant as thesignal level drops, for example, inside a building. The invention allowsless integration time for the same pseudorange accuracy, once the signalis found. Hence, the invention allows a position fix more rapidly thanother techniques under similar circumstances.

Pseudorange Measurement

FIG. 23 illustrates one method for computing pseudorange once signalpower has been detected. The output of the correlation process is aseries of correlation values which are read by the microprocessor. FIG.23 shows correlations E, P and L, and the equations required to computethe pseudorange from these values. Each of the E, P and L values may bethe square root of the sum of the squares of I and Q values.

In practice the receiver's filtering processes round off the sharp peakshown in FIG. 23. The pseudo range calculation may include an additionalcalibration term to take into account the effect of filtering. A lookuptable may also be used to relate E, P and L values to pseudorange. Thelookup table (and calibration) values may be measured empirically usinga GPS signal simulator.

Alternatively, once signal power has been found, the circuitry may beswitched to continuous tracking mode and loops locked in the standardway (code and carrier tracking loops), leading to pseudorange andcarrier phase measurements.

Data Transition Detector

Knowledge of data bit transitions may be supplied via the SAAI link orby attempting to calculate when a transition has occurred from thesignal itself. This may allow effective extended integration periods,improving signal detection capabilities. FIG. 24 illustrates thepercentage of correct transition detects for a given input SNR, for anoptimal transition detector. The input SNR refers to the SNR availableafter the correlator values are read into the P. i.e. this is a postcorrelation SNR. The normal operating range is a positive SNR (forexample +10 to +20 dBs). FIG. 24 illustrates that there is a highpercentage of successful data transition detect at these SNRs.

An example of an optimal transition detector is given as:Det=I _(k Ik-1) +Qk Q _(k-1)

I_(k), Q_(k) are the current correlator values and Ik-1, Qk-1 are theprevious correlator values. A transition has occurred when Det<0.

Method 1—NB Mode (20 msec Integration Period)

FIG. 25 shows a method executed by the EDCP in a NB mode E DCP. Thesearch ranges of both carrier frequency and code phase are determined instep 25-1, which involves determining the most accurate source of time,either from the SAAI information or the RTC information. The RTCinformation contains the receiver's own knowledge of time, which may beadequate for short receiver-OFF periods, e.g., 20 mins. The SAAIinformation may provide improved information over the long term. TheSAAI information may also provide some information relating to userposition, which also impacts the receiver's knowledge of time based onthe satellite's knowledge of time. Similarly, the receiver's oscillatorfrequency offset may be estimated using the known drift characteristicsof the particular oscillator or provided via the SAAI information.

An SV search strategy is then set, given the estimated time andfrequency values (and the uncertainty in these values). The E DCPsearches the frequency domain by stepping through the carrier NCO outputfrequency for all code phases. The EDCP searches the time domain bystepping through the code phases range using a combination of the codeNCO and C/A code generator. The code NCO allows fractional chip shifts,and the C/A code generator allows whole C/A code shifts.

In step 25-2, the carrier frequency bin, is selected by setting thecarrier NCO appropriately. In step 25-3, the code phase is selected bysetting the C/A code generator and code NCO appropriately (and alsosetting the C/A code generator to receive a particular PRN).

In step 25-4, the EDCP is set to fast playback mode. For example, Mux 89(described above in connection with FIG. 8) is controlled to output S₂and Mux 84 (described above in connection with FIG. 8) is controlled tooutput the signals I_(K), Q_(K) supplied by the memory processor block.

In step 25-5 the receiver's time and position estimate is used toinitialize the 20 msec Control Processor (described above in connectionwith FIGS. 5, 9 and 12) to synchronize the memory processor accumulationprocess to the satellite's 20 msec data bit edge.

At this point the EDCP is operating in fast acquisition/low SNR mode.The microprocessor then reads the correlators values in step 25-6. Next,the correlators values are used to determine in step 25-7 whether SVpower is present. The following decision process is applied to each I, Qcorrelator pair (i.e. I and Q for a particular code phase delay in thecorrelation process):SV Power Threshold>(I ² +Q ²)

If SV power is found, then measurements are performed in step 25-8. Thepseudorange measurement may be performed as described above inconnection with FIG. 23, and the carrier phase may be computed fromarctan(Q/I). Alternatively, Mux 84 and Mux 89 (FIG. 8) may be switchedto continuous track mode, and tracking loops are performed in a mannerknown in the prior art.

If SV power is not found and not all code phases have been checked, thenthe code phase is shifted in step 25-10, and steps 25-6 and 25-7 arerepeated for the new code phase. If all code phases have been checked,then another frequency bin is selected and steps 25-2 through 25-7 arerepeated.

Method 213 WB Mode (20 msec Integration Period)

FIG. 26 shows a method performed by the EDCP in a WB mode. Many of thesteps are similar to those in the method described above in connectionwith FIG. 25. The differences are described below. Mux 167 (describedabove in connection with FIG. 16 b) is controlled to output thedecimated signals.

After signal power has been found, Mux 167 is controlled to output thenon-decimated signals in step 26-8, and the measurements are performedon the wideband signal input in step 26-9. This may be performed byinitiating a continuous tracking method, or by collecting correlationvalues using the wideband input. The wideband input correlation valuesmay be collected using the memory processor circuitry running at thehigher clock rate or by running the EDCP circuitry in standard mode. Theresulting pseudorange measurement, performed using the wider bandwidth,would be more accurate than the NB mode.

Carrier Phase Rotation

It is more optimal in a standard receiver design to close a codetracking loop with the carrier tracking loop already closed. In this waythe code tracking loop need only include I correlator combinations,which leads to an improvement in noise performance since the Qcorrelators largely contain noise. The same principle may be applied tothe pseudorange measurement made using the EDCP. A process has beendescribed above in connection with FIG. 23 which involves I and Qversions of E, P and L being combined to form the pseudorangemeasurement.

FIG. 27 shows a method for removing the carrier phase uncertainty (sothat most of the power appears in the I correlator versions) to improvethe noise performance of the resulting pseudorange measurement.

The microprocessor reads the correlators in step 27-1. In step 27-2 thecarrier phase φ from the P_(Q) and P_(I) correlators (i.e. the onescontaining most power) is computed. The carrier phase of the correlatorsis rotated in step 27-3 to produce new correlator values E_(I)′, P_(I)′and L_(I)′ which contain most of the signal power in I. The phaserotated correlator values are used to compute the pseudorangemeasurement in step 27-4.

Extended Integration with Carrier Phase Rotation

The integration period may be extended in software by using acombination of data transition knowledge and the carrier phase rotationtechnique described above. Longer integration provides a highersignal-to-noise ratio for the pseudorange measurement.

FIG. 28 shows a method of extended integration with carrier phaserotation.

In step 28-1 the microprocessor reads the correlators. The effect ofdata bit transitions is removed in step 28-2 using data bit knowledgesupplied via the SAAI or by detecting the transition using the techniquedescribed in connection with FIG. 24. The carrier phase is computed instep 28-3. In step 28-4 the correlator values are such that all thepower appears in the I correlators. The E_(I)′, P_(I)′ and L_(I)′ valuesare accumulated in step 28-5 with previously generated values. If theintegration period is not over, steps 28-1 through 28-5 are repeated.After the integration period has ended, the pseudorange is computed instep 28-6 by using the accumulated I correlators.

This process may be used to calculate pseudorange, in the presence ofuser position change and user clock drift, by using a longer integrationperiod.

Scope, Notes and Discussion

A receiver that allows accelerated detection of signals apparatus hasbeen described above. It also provides a more accurate measurement (whencompared to prior art) when the signal is found (via WB mode). Theinvention includes an improvement to an otherwise standard GPS trackingchannel. The invention includes an apparatus for improving the searchrate for signals by using a memory processor and fast playbackcorrelation.

Other enhancements may be made. As suggested above in the description inconnection with FIG. 1, using a DCXO has an advantage over using, forexample, an XO. The receiver described above accumulates the incomingsignal across an integration period (e.g., 20 msecs). During theintegration period the code phase position of the incoming satellite C/Acode and the phase of the sampling clock should not be permitted todrift excessively. As an example of excessive drift, if the localoscillator is accurate to 1 part in 10⁴ in frequency the C/A codefrequency offset caused by this would be 1.023 MHZ×1×10⁻⁴, or 102.3 Hz.Therefore, during a 20 msec period the C/A code would drift by0.02×102.3 chips (or 2.046 chips). Since, with such a drift, the sampleswould not appear at approximately the same place in the C/A code streameach msec, a sample during the first msec would be accumulated with asample 2 chips away 20 msecs later. This would cause excessive signalloss. A remedy is either to use a better oscillator (typically accurateto 1×10⁻⁶) or to apply an estimate of the oscillator offset (e.g., fromSAAI information) to digitally control the DCXO output frequency so thatit remains within acceptable tolerance levels for the problem describedabove.

The memory processor in the EDCP may be powered up only for the purposeof finding signals. Once signals are found, the memory processor may bepowered down and the EDCP may be set to continuous tracking mode. Inthis way the E DCP channel uses little or no more power than an SDCPchannel when in continuous tracking mode.

After the search for power, the correlators (I and Q) that contain themost power are defined as the punctual correlators (see FIG. 23). Thecorrelators to the side of the punctual correlators are therefore theearly (E) and late (L) correlators. Delay spacing between thecorrelators is set to the sample clock width. For 2.5 MHZ the delayspacings would be 0.4 secs. It is possible to perform the search forpower using spacings that are longer (e.g., 1 C/A chip 1 sec), but thisreduces the probability that a particular correlator pair (I and Q) willbe close to the peak of the autocorrelation function.

Other improvements and modifications that become apparent to persons ofordinary skill in the art after reading this disclosure, the drawingsand the appended claims are within the scope of the present invention.

1-25. (canceled)
 26. An enhanced digital channel processor for asatellite positioning system (SATPS) receiver, comprising: means forreceiving data in successive data bit periods and integrating said datain an integration period longer than said data bit periods; and a memoryprocessor having a storage device comprising two storage parts, wherein,during a low SNR and/or fast acquisition mode, said memory processoraccumulates sums representative of samples of a down-converted SATPSsignal in said integration period, stores the accumulated sums in one ofsaid storage parts, and plays back at a substantially accelerated ratethe sums stored in the other of said storage parts.